Vector FPV Simulator Set Up Guide

Quick Explanations

Welcome to your journey into flying FPV (First-Person View) drones! Before we dive into the hands-on experience, let's understand why we're kicking things off in a flight simulator and why we recommend Liftoff Flight Simulator for this process.

Why Start in a Simulator?

Learning to fly FPV is exhilarating, but it comes with a steep learning curve. Unlike traditional drone flying, FPV puts you directly "in the cockpit" of the drone, meaning you'll need to master controlling its movement in 3D space from the drone's perspective.

This level of control is both rewarding and challenging, and that's where simulators come in:


• No Risk, All Reward:
  Flying in a simulator lets you crash as much as you need without breaking any equipment or spending money on repairs. This is especially helpful for beginners who will inevitably make mistakes.

• Build Muscle Memory:
  FPV flying requires instinctive control over the sticks, and simulators allow you to practice without worrying about environmental factors like wind or obstacles.
• Save Money:
  FPV drones, parts, and repairs can get expensive. A simulator gives you unlimited practice time at a fraction of the cost of replacement parts.


In short, the simulator is your training ground. It allows you to make all your early mistakes in a safe and controlled environment, so by the time you're ready to fly a real FPV drone, you'll have the confidence and skills to succeed.

Why Liftoff Flight Simulator?

There are a few simulators out there, but we've chosen to guide you with Liftoff Flight Simulator, and here's why:


1. Realistic Physics:
   Liftoff provides an accurate simulation of how FPV drones handle in real life, giving you a feel for the drone's weight, speed, and responsiveness.
2. Visual Realism:
   The detailed graphics and environments make it easier to immerse yourself in the experience, so it feels familiar when you transition to flying a real drone.
3. Beginner-Friendly and Flexible:
   Liftoff offers a balance of beginner-friendly tools and advanced features, so you can grow at your own pace. Whether learning basic controls or refining precise maneuvers, Liftoff has you covered.
4. Community and Resources:
   Liftoff is widely used in the FPV community, meaning you'll have access to a wealth of tutorials, guides, and even multiplayer modes to fly alongside other FPV enthusiasts.

Starting your FPV journey in a simulator is not just the safest option; it's the smartest one. With Liftoff, you'll gain the confidence and skills to move on to real-world flying without the anxiety of costly crashes.

Josh’s YouTube Video (This video covers chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4)

Setting Up the TBS Tango II Pro

Now that you understand why we're starting in a simulator, it's time to set up your TBS Tango 2 Pro controller. This chapter will guide you through configuring your controller for the simulator, charging it, and connecting it to your computer in USB Joystick mode.

Setting Up a Model for the Simulator

Before using your Tango 2 Pro in the simulator, create a model profile configured for simulation use. Here's how:

1. Power On the Tango 2 Pro:
   1. Press and hold the power button until the screen lights up.
2. Enter the Model Selection Screen:
   1. Press and hold the scroll wheel until you see the Model Select option.
   2. Scroll to Model Select and press the scroll wheel to access it.
3. Create a New Model:
   1. From the Model Select page, press and hold the scroll wheel again.Select Create Model.
   2. Select Multi for multi-rotor or quadcopter.
   3. Press Page through the channel assignment settings until you reach the AUX3 page.
   4. Press the scroll wheel, and you will see SA begin to flash
   5. Use the scroll wheel to scroll to SB.Press the scroll wheel once you've found SB, and the flashing will discontinue.
   6. Press the page button again and repeat this process, assigning SC to AUX2.
   7. When you reach the Ready to go? page, long press the scroll wheel to create the model.
4. Select Your Model:
   1. From the Models page, ensure the asterisk is next to the model you just created. If you need to select a different model, you will use the scroll wheel to highlight the model, long-press the scroll wheel, and press the scroll wheel again on the Select Model option.

Now, your Tango 2 is ready to act as a controller for the simulator.

Setting Up a TBS Tango II Pro from scratch

If you need to set up another or new TBS Tango II Pro from scratch. Here's how:


1. Download TBS Agent X:
   1. TBS Agent X is available on Mac or PC from the following link.
      1. https://www.team-blacksheep.com/products/prod:agentx?srsltid=AfmBOorNntXUeb__KeBujomGdSCfDM0UGP2uAfdvHh3nylL431ILs0SG
2. Open TBS Agent X:

3. Power On the TBS Tango II Pro:‍
   1. Press and hold the power button until the screen lights up.
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4. Checking and Updating controller Firmware:‍
   1. Connect the controller to your Mac or PC with a USB-C.
   2. Once plugged in, you will need to select USB Agent (HID) using the scroll wheel of your controller.
      1. When your controller is recognized by the TBS Agent X program you will see three options.
         1. Tango II
         2. Tango II XF
         3. Tango II WiFi
   3. Select Tango II
      1. Verify your controller is on Firmware v1.40.
         1. If below v1.40, select firmware at the bottom right of the screen.
            1. Select anywhere on the v1.40 line.
            2. Click Update to v1.40 and begin the process.
            3. Note: While updating a controller it is likely to power cycle/restart. On restart ensure you select USB Agent (HID).
         2. Once complete, proceed to the next step.
   4. Select Tango II XS
      1. Select firmware at the bottom right of the screen.
         1. If below v6.36, select anywhere on the v6.36 line.
         2. Click Update to v6.36 and begin the process.
            1. Note: While updating a controller it is likely to power cycle/restart. On restart ensure you select USB Agent (HID).
         3. Once complete, proceed to the next step.
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5. Naming your Model:‍
   1. From the home screen, select the MENU button on your controller.
      1. Under SETUP select Model Name using the controllers scroll wheel.
         1. Rename the model to Vector.
      2. Once complete, proceed to the next step.
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6. Creating Custom Logic (special purpose use):‍
   1. Finding Logical Switches.
      1. Select MENU on the controller.
      2. Select PAGE on the controller to tab through, finding the Logical Switches page.
         1. Scroll to L01 and select using the scroll wheel on the controller to begin configuration.
            1. Edit L01:
            2. Func= Stky (sticky)
            3. V1= SE⬇️
            4. V2= SE⬇️
            5. Exit on controller
         2. Scroll to L02 and select using the scroll wheel on the controller to begin configuration.
            1. Edit L02:
            2. Func= Stky (sticky)
            3. V1= SF⬇️
            4. V2= SF⬇️
            5. EXIT on controller
      3. Your custom logic is now created for both the SE and SF buttons on the back of your TBS Tango II Pro.
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7. Assigning your Logic to the controller through Mixes:‍
   1. Finding Mixes page.
      1. Select MENU on the controller.
      2. Select PAGE on the controller to tab through, finding the Mixes page.
      3. Using the scroll wheel on the controller, scroll to CH9 (SE) and Select/Hold.
         1. Edit
         2. Source = L01 (you will need to scroll through the inputs until you find LO1).
      4. Using the scroll wheel on the controller, scroll to CH10 (SF) and Select/Hold.
         1. Edit
         2. Source = L02 (you will need to scroll through the inputs until you find LO2).
      5. EXIT on controller.
   2. Your custom logic is now assigned for both the SE and SF buttons on the back of your TBS Tango II Pro.
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8. Frequency and Power Changes:‍
   1. Your new TBS Tango II Pro may come from another country and we need to verify that you are using the correct frequency and power for communicating with your drone(s).
      1. Hold MENU on the controller.
         1. Select TBS Agent Lite.
         2. Select Tango II XF.
            1. Scroll to, and select, Radio settings.
            2. Frequency = 915 MHz
            3. Max Power = 250mW
         3. EXIT on controller.
      2. Your TBS Tango II Pro now has the appropriate Frequency and Power settings.
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9. Calibrating your Joysticks:‍
   1. Your new TBS Tango II Pro will need joystick calibration. This can be done at any point, especially if you notice aberrant behavior without pilot input.
      1. Hold the MENU on the controller.
         1. Page until the Hardware screen is displayed.
            1. Select [Calibration].
            2. Follow on screen instructions for calibration of left, both, or right joysticks.
         2. EXIT on controller.
      2. Your TBS Tango II Pro now has the appropriate Frequency and Power settings.


Now, your TBS Tango II Pro is ready to act as a controller for drones or simulator.

Charging the TBS Tango II Pro

To ensure your Tango 2 Pro is ready for extended practice sessions, keep it fully charged:


1. Locate the Charging Port:
   1. The Tango 2 Pro uses a USB-C port on the bottom of the controller.

2. Connect to a Charger:
   1. Use the included USB-C cable or any compatible cable to connect the controller to a power source (e.g., a wall adapter or computer).

3. Check the Battery Status:
   1. The LED above the power button will illuminate. When you receive the controller, allow it to charge for a few hours.

Connecting to Your Computer in Joystick Mode

When connected to your computer, your Tango 2 Pro can function as a joystick, allowing you to use it in simulators like Liftoff.


1. Connect the Tango 2 Pro to Your Computer:
   1. Turn the controller on before connecting it.
   2. Plug one end of the USB-C cable into the controller and the other into your computer.

2. Enter USB Joystick Mode:
   1. On the Tango 2 Pro screen, you'll see a prompt asking what mode to use.
   2. Select Joystick (USB) by scrolling and pressing the scroll wheel.


With your TBS Tango 2 Pro charged, configured, and connected, you can start configuring and practicing in the simulator! In the next chapter, we'll walk you through setting up Liftoff Flight Simulator and taking your first virtual flight.

Josh’s YouTube Video (This video covers chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4)

Downloading and Setting Up Liftoff Simulator in Steam

With your TBS Tango 2 Pro ready, it’s time to dive into the simulator. We’ve provided you with a Steam gift card to purchase Liftoff: Ultimate Collection—a great package to start your FPV journey. Let’s walk you through the process of setting up your simulator.

Making a Steam Account

To download and play Liftoff, you’ll need a Steam account.


1. Download Steam:
   1. Visit store.steampowered.com and click Install Steam in the top-right corner.
   2. Download and install the Steam client on your computer.

2. Create an Account:
   1. Open Steam and click Create a Free Account.
   2. Enter your email, create a username and password, and follow the on-screen instructions.
   3. Verify your email address through the confirmation link sent to your inbox.

Adding the Steam Gift Card to Your Steam Wallet

1. Redeem the Gift Card:
   1. Open the Steam client and log in.
   2. Click your username in the top-right corner, then select Account Details.
   3. Under Store & Purchase History, click Add Funds to Your Steam Wallet.
   4. Select Redeem a Steam Gift Card or Wallet Code.
   5. Enter the code from the gift card you received and confirm.

2. Check Your Balance:
   1. Your Steam Wallet will now show the updated balance, which is ready for purchases.

Purchasing Liftoff: Ultimate Collection

1. Search for Liftoff:
   1. In the Steam client, click the Store tab and search for Liftoff: Ultimate Collection in the search bar.

2. Add to Cart:
   1. Select the Ultimate Collection and click Add to Cart.

3. Purchase the Game:
   1. Click Purchase for Myself and follow the on-screen steps to complete the transaction using your Steam Wallet balance.


Installing Liftoff: Ultimate Collection


1. Go to Your Library:
   1. After purchase, click on the Library tab in Steam.
   2. Find Liftoff: Ultimate Collection in the list of games.

2. Install the Game:
   1. Click the Install button and select the installation directory on your computer.
   2. Wait for the game to download and install.

Opening Liftoff in Steam

1. Launch the Game:
   1. In your Steam Library, find Liftoff: Ultimate Collection and click Play.
   2. The game will open, and you’ll be greeted by the main menu.

Calibrating Your Controller in Liftoff

Proper calibration ensures your TBS Tango 2 Pro functions smoothly in the simulator.


1. Open Controller Settings:
   1. In the main menu, navigate to Options > Controls > Controller.

2. Follow the Calibration Wizard:
   1. Move the sticks and switches as prompted on the screen to map all axes correctly.

3. Add Deadband:
   1. Adjust the Fine Tune settings to prevent small stick movements from affecting the drone’s behavior. A value between 5% and 10% is typically sufficient.

4. Save Your Settings:
   1. Once calibrated, save your controller settings.

Adding a Frame Rate Counter to Liftoff Through Steam

1. Enable the Frame Rate Counter:
   1. In the Steam client, go to Steam > Settings > In-Game.
   2. Under In-Game FPS Counter, select a corner of the screen to display the frame rate.

2. Apply and Confirm:
   1. Click OK to save your changes. The frame rate counter will now appear while playing Liftoff.

Ensuring 60 FPS or Higher

Smooth performance is crucial for learning FPV. Follow these steps to optimize Liftoff for 60 FPS or more:


1. Check Your Frame Rate:
   1. Start a practice session in Liftoff and watch the frame rate counter.

2. Adjust Settings if Necessary:
   1. Navigate to Options > Graphics in the Liftoff menu.
   2. Turn off V-Sync
   3. Lower settings like Resolution and Quality if your frame rate drops below 60 FPS.
   4. Ensure the Limit Framerate setting is disabled.

3. Test Until Stable:
   1. Keep testing and tweaking until you consistently achieve 60 FPS or higher.


Once you’ve completed these steps, your simulator is ready to use. In the next chapter, we’ll focus on the basics of drone flight in Liftoff and begin your FPV practice journey.

Josh’s YouTube Video (This video covers chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4)

Your First Flight

Now that you've set up your controller and simulator, it's time for your first flight! In this chapter, we'll guide you through choosing the best starting environment, adjusting basic settings, and understanding fundamental flight principles. The goal is to familiarize yourself with fully manual flight characteristics (acro mode) and begin mastering the basics of throttle management and hovering.

Choosing the Right Map and Flight Option

To make learning more accessible, we'll start with a simple map and no added challenges:


1. Select the Straw Bale Map:
   1. From the main menu in Liftoff, navigate to Free Flight mode.
   2. Choose the Straw Bale map—a flat, open environment ideal for beginners.

2. Choose "No Track" Option:
   1. In the map settings, select No Track to give yourself an open space to practice without restrictions.

Adjusting the Camera Angle

FPV drones use adjustable cameras to help you see where you're going. Adjusting the angle will affect how you perceive speed and how much throttle you need to maintain forward motion.


• Use the Up and Down Arrows on Your Keyboard:
  • Press the Up Arrow to increase the camera angle.
  • Press the Down Arrow to decrease it.


For beginners:

• Start with a lower angle (5-15°) to make hovering and small movements easier to manage.


Switching Between Flight Modes
‍FPV drones can operate in several flight modes. It's crucial to understand these before learning to fly manually.

Switching Modes

• Press the A Key to cycle through flight modes.
• The current mode will display on the screen.

Flight Modes Overview:

• Stabilized Mode (Angle Mode): The drone automatically levels itself when you release the sticks. It is perfect for getting a feel for basic controls, but we want to develop skills in full-manual flight to ensure we are the most competent pilots we can be.

• Horizon Mode: Similar to stabilized mode, it allows for some acrobatic maneuvers like flips and rolls with self-leveling when sticks are released.

• Acro Mode (Manual Mode): Full manual control with no self-leveling or assistance. This is the default mode for most FPV pilots and the one you'll focus on learning.

• For this lesson, ensure you're in Acro Mode, as it will teach you how to control the drone.

Understanding Fully Manual Flight Characteristics (Acro Mode)

In Acro Mode, your drone responds directly to your stick inputs:


• Pitch (Forward/Backward Tilt): Controlled by the right stick (up/down).
• Roll (Side-to-Side Tilt): Controlled by the right stick (left/right).
• Yaw (Rotation): Controlled by the left stick (left/right).
• Throttle (Altitude): Controlled by the left stick (up/down).


Unlike stabilized modes, the drone does not auto-correct or return to level. If you tilt forward, it stays tilted until you correct it.

Building an Awareness of Throttle Management

Throttle management is one of the most critical skills in FPV flying. In manual mode:


• Too little throttle: The drone will descend rapidly or crash.
• Too much throttle: The drone will shoot upwards uncontrollably.


Practice smooth, small adjustments to keep the drone steady.

Establishing a Hover

Hovering is the foundation of drone control. Here's how to practice:


1. Get Off the Ground:
   1. Slowly push the throttle (left stick up) until the drone lifts off. Avoid slamming the stick—smooth movements are essential.

2. Find a Stable Altitude:
   1. Keep the throttle steady to hold the drone at a consistent height.

3. Tilting:
   1. Don't worry about drift for now; focus on keeping a consistent altitude first, and we will add right stick corrections to counter drift later.

4. Practice Hovering in Place:
   1. Your goal is to keep the drone in roughly the same spot for as long as possible without touching the ground or climbing too high.

Next Steps

Once you feel comfortable hovering, try small movements forward, backward, and side to side to gain better control. Don't worry if you crash often—that's why we're in the simulator! With time and patience, you'll gain the muscle memory needed for real-world FPV flying.The next chapter will focus on basic maneuvers like flying in a straight line and making simple turns. Stay consistent, and you'll be a pro in no time!

Josh’s YouTube Video (This video covers chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4)